Adventure on a budget beckons in Ecuador, where you'll find the wonders of the Amazon, World Heritage cities, and volcanoes. The U.S. dollar is widely accepted, and Lonely Planet claims just $15 per day will be enough for budget travelers to enjoy their vacation, whereas $50 to $75 per day is enough for all types of luxuries. Regardless of what budget spectrum you choose, you'll find enough to fill your days with fun things to do.

Ecuador is roughly the size of Colorado, so you can see quite a lot of the country over a vacation. Explore the World Heritage cities of Quito and Cuenca, experience a traditional Ecuadorian market in Otavalo, or relax at the world-famous thermal springs in Papallacta. Bird-watchers and nature aficionados will of course be lured to the Amazon, with its countless wildlife species, and daredevils can experience the country's many (active) volcanoes with a guided hike or bike tour.

At publication time, Friendly Planet was offering an eight-day Exotic Ecuador package from $1,299 per person, including airfare, seven nights' accommodations, fuel surcharges, in-country transfers, several meals, and guided tours.